A review of prescribing over the counter medicines (OTC's) in the OMFS department, Ipswich Hospital

Abstract

It has been noted in the press and literature recently that there is a high number of over the counter medicines being prescribed across the national health service e.g. Paracetamol. This is a topic that has not been investigated within this speciality before. The aim of this service review was to investigate the amount of OTC's being prescribed by the OMFS department at Ipswich Hospital. Data was collected via an information spread sheet provided by the hospital pharmacy. The service review considered all out patient prescriptions between October 2017 and October 2019. All OTC's during these time periods were highlighted and investigated. The service review was conducted over two one year periods respectively. The total department spend on OTC's between October 2017 and October 2018 was £2741. Common OTC's prescribed were Difflam mouthwash and spray, Corsydyl mouthwash and Miconazole oral gel. The results were presented to the department at an audit meeting. The total spend had reduced significantly in the second year (October 2018–October 2019) to £182.This service review highlighted the amount of OTC's that were prescribed and the great need to reduce this. Clinicians could reduce the amount of OTC's prescribed and by so, reduce hospital cost. Change has been implemented by raising awareness amongst clinicians and other health care professionals. Lists of all OTC medication relevant to our department have been put up in all surgeries. The authors would like to encourage other departments to carry out a similar quality improvement project, to reduce spends nationally.